Hickstead specialists shine

THE past two years have been the first time since the show’s 1960 inception that Hickstead’s famous bank, dyke and ditches have lain dormant.

This year’s Derby trial, a rankings class and qualifier for the main event, was consequently the first time many combinations had confronted their challenges. It was no real surprise, therefore, that experience would win through. Two of the most successful Derby riders of their generation, Harriet Biddick (A Touch Imperious) and William Funnell (Equine America Billy Diamo), delivered the sole clear rounds of the class, before opting to share the spoils and save their horses for the big day.

It was an emotive win for both riders, who were facing their own unique pressures this week.

“It’s very poignant for me, because my mother was looking forward to coming this week, but unfortunately, she died last week, ” William said. “She would have loved to have been here.”

Harriet, meanwhile, must have wondered if the now 18-year-old “Henry” would ever return to Hickstead’s hallowed turf, after he spent two years off with two consecutive injuries.

“He’s kind